In Hindu mythology, 'Deepavali' or 'Diwali,' which roughly translates as 'row of lamps,' marks the homecoming of Hindu god Rama after 14 years in exile. Here, a devotee lights lamps near the sacred pond of the illuminated Golden Temple, the holiest of Sikh shrines on the occasion of Diwali festival and Bandi Chorh Diwas in Amritsar, India, Tuesday.

In Hindu mythology, 'Deepavali' or 'Diwali,' which roughly translates as 'row of lamps,' marks the homecoming of Hindu god Rama after 14 years in exile. Here, a devotee lights lamps near the sacred pond of the illuminated Golden Temple, the holiest of Sikh shrines on the occasion of Diwali festival and Bandi Chorh Diwas in Amritsar, India, Tuesday.

The festival, which marks the beginning of the Hindu new year, is typically celebrated by lighting earthen lamps, exchanging gifts, and worshiping Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. Shown, students released eco-friendly sky lanterns ahead of Diwali in Kolkata, Nov. 9.

The festival, which marks the beginning of the Hindu new year, is typically celebrated by lighting earthen lamps, exchanging gifts, and worshiping Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. Shown, students released eco-friendly sky lanterns ahead of Diwali in Kolkata, Nov. 9.